what gas string trimmer to get upto $200

[thegreatfixer]

hi there first i am in CA but i am putting it on a lift out of the USA (so i might be able to get the banned 2strokes)

i am on the cheap side so if i could i would get the ryobi/mtd 775r for $75

but if talked out of it i would get an echo stihl ....

the use will be for thick weeds mixed with small stones around not for year round use but must be good for several hours without stoping (other then fuel and oil)

i like the idea of being able to add a blade (i know the stones)

thank you
thegreatfixer

 

[marks]

I'm familiar with Echo, Stihl, and John Deere two stroke engines, and have focused on Echo products. I've encountered parts availability issues with Stihl and JD, and have found the Echo to be very common. With respect to residing in CA, I purchased an Echo Power Pruner several months ago from a NJ dealership via the internet. Some places balked at sending non-CA compliant engines while other didn't.

 

[Av8r3400]

From everyone I've talked to (pro-operators and independent small engine types) while shopping for the same type of unit, Stihl was the overwhelming choice of everyone. I bought a Stihl FS45 line trimmer for $130. A very well made unit which I am very pleased with. It uses the same power head as some of their more professional type equipment does and is rated for 250 hours (life expectancy). The top line Ryobe (sp?) was $200 and had a motor rated for less than 30 hours. (Per the small engine shop information I read)

Echo was recommended a close second, but the #1 choice of everyone I talked to was Stihl. As a side note, parts availability for Stihl is a non-issue.

 

[milkman]

For my $199, make it an Echo.

 

[Donman]

I'll second that Milkman!

 

[thegreatfixer]

Thank you all

OK i will get the Stihl/Echo

but where not at sears lowes walmart .....

i will get one of them but where can i get it localy

thank you thegreatfixer
even online if the shipping is ok

 

[milkman]

You didn't fill in your profile so we have no way of knowing where you are. Home Depot sells the Echo, course if you're inside the arctic circle, you don't have one there, and you wouldn't need a weedeater. /forums/images/graemlins/grin.gif

 

[Av8r3400]

Look up chain saws in the yellow pages and let the phone work for you. /forums/images/graemlins/grin.gif

Echo and Stihl-- Kinda like Ford and Chevy. Everyone has their favorite, but they are both quality units. My advise would be to not waste your money on the "big box" throw away brands (Ryobi, Yard-man, etc.).

Just my opinion. /forums/images/graemlins/crazy.gif

 

[tracdoc]

You might want to lookk at Alamia on-line {HERE} They are out of Colorado, selling major lines of professional and some homeowner units. I bought my backpack blower from them. They had best price I could find, free shipping and no sales tax.

 

[thegreatfixer]

updated and thanks you all for the advice /forums/images/graemlins/grin.gif

thank you
thegreatfixer